Keys to Success

There are a number of components that ensure that food security programming is successful and has longevity.

Funding

The TLCC Food Security Network was started with a grant from VCH. It is unknown whether the network will receive further funding from VCH. As a result one of the top priorities should be to look for stable medium to long-term funding. The following is the beginning of a list of possible funding bodies.

  • Vancity – various funds
  • Vancouver Foundation
  • McConnell Foundation – interested in funding programs that are replicable throughout the country. (i.e. Design a model Community Food Security Network.)
  • United Way Community Innovation Grants
  • City of Vancouver – Community Projects Fund

Inter-agency cooperation

A significant role of the network will be to identify, engage and connect the organizations and individuals that are working on food security issues within the community. Programming gains strength when projects are developed in cooperation with other organizations and in conjunction with existing projects. Current examples within TLCC include:

  • Take-A-Break program at Foodbank depot.
  • Aboriginal Community Kitchen at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House in cooperation with Vancouver Native Health.
  • Farmers Market coupons distributed at community locations for use at Trout Lake Farmers Market.
  • Environmental Youth Alliance –urban agriculture workshop partner
  • UBC Dietetic Students to review success of Take-A-Break

It is imperative that existing agencies recognize the value of the TLCCFSN and it’s mandate. The network is supportive of all existing food security programming and will help facilitating what is already happening. The network’s aim is to bring all interested parties together to strengthen food security in our community.

Community Input and Buy-In

In order for any community food security project to be effective it must be supported and driven by community members. Individuals have different skills and levels of commitment that need to be managed to ensure that participation is possible from as wide of a variety of people as possible. Community driven programming ensures that projects are unique to place and that participant needs are being met. Developing projects and programming that build capacity in the community will leave a more secure food future for our children and future residents. next...